Lebanon, Denmark discuss refugees, terrorism

Security threats imposed by extremist groups and the refugee crisis in Lebanon were the topics of discussion between the Lebanese justice minister and his Danish counterpart Thursday, The Daily Star reported.

"We appreciate the great effort that Lebanon is making to receive the Syrian Refugees," the Karen Haekkerup said after the meeting with Ashraf Rifi at his residence in Ashrafieh.

She explained that as well as aiding Lebanon in its handling of the Syrian refugees in the country, Denmark was also encouraging refugees to leave Lebanon for Denmark.

While he acknowledged the Danish efforts, Rifi voiced Lebanon's dissatisfaction with the amount of aid it is receiving from the international community in general.

" Lebanon needs bigger roles and larger aids from [the international community] with the Syrian refugees in Lebanon reaching 35 percent of the population," he said.

The two justice ministers also discussed the security situation in Lebanon.

"I assured her that the situation in Lebanon was acceptable compared to what is happening in the region," the minister explained, "but also that we should be ready to intervene at any moment."

Rifi also said he informed Haekkerup about the counter-terrorism strategy being prepared by the Justice Ministry.

"There is a common view with all of the world's nations and especially Lebanon's friends," he said, "that we could discuss with any Danish team coming to Lebanon."